Homemade masala chai

So chai means tea, just tea. Masala chai, or masala tea, is the spiced version of tea. Funnily enough, I can’t stand the kind of ‘chai’ sold in tea bags or at starbucks, and definitely have no time for a coffee version like a chai latte. But maybe homemade chai would be good?

The verdict: yes, pretty good. Wonderful. Spicy, warming and delicious. And strong! Definitely the kind of hot drink you should take your time with and sip slowly. With these aromatic, autumnal spices such as cinnamon, ginger and star anise, it is great for drinking while reading a book under a blanket and staring out the window at the gorgeous fall colors. My husband hated it but then he likes earl grey or strong black tea with a splash of milk and nothing else and he will not bend so that’s the end of that. In fact he took one little sip and made a face and said, yuck it tastes like Indian sweets (of course he likes savory Indian food–who doesn’t–but he’s not a fan of the sweets).

I recommend making this only if you have these spices to hand. It’s not worth buying all these whole spices (which can be expensive) just to make one cup of tea. But other than having the ingredients to hand, this is easy. Much easier than trekking to a coffee shop and parting with a five dollar bill. Also remember to get most of these spices from an Indian market which is much cheaper than the spice aisle of a supermarket!

So there are two ways: 1) take the whole and dried spices and grind to a powder that you keep air locked in your pantry for many uses, or 2) steep the whole spices in the liquid and then strain into your cup for a one off.

Also note that you can change the spice quantity and which spices you use to your taste. If 8 peppercorns are too spicy, add less. If you like a super strong ginger taste, add more. Also cloves and fennel seeds can be added. There are countless varieties of masala chai recipes, so figure out the one you like. Choose a decaf tea such as rooibos if you are off caffeine. Use a non-dairy milk if you are vegan. And so forth..

Gently toast the spices and ginger powder in a dry frying pan until aromatic. Then grind in a spice grinder until fine. Seal in an airtight container and use about 1/2 a tsp of this spice mix to add to your tea.

If you are interested in ayurvedic medicine, some of the benefits of these spices are as follows: